West Europe up to 2.8 million water coolers
The West Europe water cooler market, which scarcely existed 25 years ago, climbed to a record 2.78 million units installed at the end of 2012, according to a new report from the sector’s leading specialist consultancy Zenith International.
Recent growth, however, has slowed to 1% a year and there has been a major shift in the types of machine used. The market is still dominated by bottled water coolers, with a 58% share, but their number has fallen in each of the last five years to 1.6 million. In contrast, mains water point-of-use coolers have gained share each year, rising by 6% in 2012 to 1.2 million.
The United Kingdom and Italy remain the largest markets, with a combined 41% share. Switzerland achieved the greatest increase for point-of-use units in 2012. Spain saw an overall decline, with point-of-use gains falling short of bottled water cooler losses.
“Water coolers are now an essential service for staff well being in many businesses, but growth has undoubtedly been hit by higher unemployment, higher taxes and lower government spending,” commented Zenith Consultant Iva Hatzold.
Surprisingly, Greece had the biggest increase for bottled water coolers last year. “Here, coolers appear to have offered a cost saving alternative to smaller retail bottle sizes,” Iva Hatzold added.
Zenith forecasts continued overall growth, taking the total to 3.2 million in 2017. “Provided companies focus their efforts on innovative and sustainable products, customer service and the importance of hydration, there is still strong potential for the future,” concluded Iva Hatzold. Point-of-use coolers are expected to reach 50% of the market by 2017.
The 2013 Zenith Report on West Europe Water Coolers contains over 670 pages of market commentary, charts and tables together with country and company profiles. Contact Zenith International on tel +44 (0)1225 327900 or e-mail info@zenithinternational.com
Notes for Editors
1. Two charts are attached for publication:
West Europe Water Cooler Units 2008-12
West Europe Water Cooler Market 2012-17
2. For further information, please contact:
Iva Hatzold, Consultant, Zenith International Ltd
7 Kingsmead Square, Bath BA1 2AB, United Kingdom
t +44 (0)1225 327900, f +44 (0)1225 327901
zenithinternational.com